Developmental toxicity and teratogenic effects of phytic acid on zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos
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Phytic acid (myo-inositol-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakis-dihydrogen phosphate) is a common constituent of oilseeds, legumes, and cereals and is ubiquitously present in plant-based foods. While its antinutritional effects in vertebrates have been well documented, its potential impacts on early embryonic development remain poorly understood. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the developmental toxicity of phytic acid in zebrafish (Danio rerio, ZF) embryos. Developmental toxicity testing was conducted in accordance with OECD Test Guideline 236, in which ZF embryos were exposed to various concentrations of phytic acid and a control treatment. Embryo mortality and developmental abnormalities were evaluated at different hours post-fertilization (hpf). Phytic acid exhibited moderate toxicity to ZF embryos, with an estimated median lethal concentration (LC??) at 96 hpf of 5.0±1.0 ppm. Furthermore, phytic acid-treated embryos and larvae exhibited various developmental deformities, including reduced heart rate, shortened body length, yolk sac edema, tail malformations, delayed hatching, and spinal curvature. Cardiac-related abnormalities, such as pericardial edema and impaired blood circulation, were also observed. Overall, these findings indicate that phytic acid exerts teratogenic effects on zebrafish embryos at certain exposure levels.
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